Countries around the globe are experiencing significant protests in 2024, driven by various socio-economic and political grievances.
This report highlights key incidents in Nigeria, the United Kingdom, Kenya, Venezuela and Bangladesh, examining the causes, government responses, and the broader implications of these movements.
Nigeria
On August 1, 2024, protests erupted across Nigeria under the banner of the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria movement.
Organized by a coalition of civil society groups, including the “Take It Back” Movement, demonstrators are demanding an end to the high cost of living, soaring food prices, and government corruption.
Protesters are calling for a reversal of fuel price hikes, an increase in the national minimum wage to N300,000, and electoral reforms to enhance transparency and accountability in governance.
The protests have led to violent clashes with police, who have responded with tear gas and arrests.
President Bola Tinubu’s administration has faced criticism for its handling of the situation, with many accusing the government of failing to address the root causes of the unrest, which includes inflation rates exceeding 40% and a devalued naira.
President Tinubu addressed the nation on Sunday, August 4, but has been heavily criticised for not specifically addressing the demands of aggrieved protesters.
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, protests ignited following a tragic knife attack in Southport that claimed the lives of three young girls.
Misinformation linking the suspect to immigration sparked violent anti-immigration protests across cities like Liverpool and Manchester.
Merseyside Police reported severe disorder in the city centre, with significant clashes also occurring in Manchester.
Protesters in Hull vandalised a hotel housing migrants, injuring three officers and leading to four arrests.
The violence has spotlighted hard-right agitators with ties to football hooliganism, coinciding with a rise in anti-immigration sentiment in British politics.
In Belfast, tensions flared as fireworks were thrown during confrontations between an anti-Islam group and an anti-racism rally.
Leeds saw 150 people carrying English flags chanting inflammatory slogans while counter-protesters demanded their removal.
Demonstrators clashed with police, resulting in injuries and arrests, as far-right groups have been accused of exploiting the incident to promote their agenda.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the violence, labeling it as “far-right thuggery,” and pledged that those responsible would face legal consequences.
He assured that perpetrators would “face the full force of the law” and reiterated government support for police actions to maintain public safety.
The disturbances, sparked by false social media rumours about the suspect Axel Rudakubana, mark the fourth day of unrest following the deadly knife attack in Southport. Muslim places of worship nationwide have since heightened security in response to the violence.
Kenya
Kenya has witnessed a wave of protests since June 2024, primarily against President William Ruto’s proposed finance bill, which aimed to increase taxes on essential goods.
The protests, initially peaceful, escalated into violence, with demonstrators storming parliament and causing significant damage.
The unrest has resulted in over 20 fatalities, prompting Ruto to retract the finance bill and dissolve his cabinet.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga has been vocal in demanding greater accountability from the government, warning that continued economic mismanagement could lead to further instability.
Venezuela
Venezuela continues to be embroiled in political turmoil, with the 2024 protests marking another chapter in its prolonged crisis.
Citizens are protesting against the government of Nicolás Maduro, citing widespread corruption, human rights abuses, and a deteriorating economy.
The country’s hyperinflation, food and medicine shortages, and crumbling infrastructure have left many desperate and angry.
The opposition leaders call for new elections and international intervention to address the humanitarian crisis.
Bangladesh
In Bangladesh, widespread protests erupted against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, fueled by allegations of election manipulation and economic hardship.
On August 5, 2024, nearly 100 protesters were killed during clashes with security forces. The unrest has been characterized by demands for political reforms and accountability, with protesters accusing the government of failing to address the rising cost of living and corruption.
The situation has prompted the leader of the country, Sheikh Hasina, to resign on Monday, August 5, and flee, a crackdown by authorities, further escalating tensions within the country.
